Combat Disease with Proper Dental Care

Everyone does it, but that doesn’t make it right—isn’t that something that your mom used to say? Well, she was right, at least when it comes to dental care. Visits to the dentist are one of those things that many people put off, sometimes for years and years, but skipping routine teeth cleaning with a dental hygienist and even basic, at-home dental care habits, can lead to serious health conditions throughout the entire body. Meaning, the majority of the population, who are skipping those dental visits, are putting their total health at significant risk. Overall, poor dental hygiene can raise the risk of heart and lung disease and diabetes, as well as impact cognitive health.

New studies have found that your brain and heart health are directly correlated to your oral health, but you have the power to combat it all. A large, recent study found that those who had a teeth cleaning performed by a dental hygienist at least twice a year were 24 percent less likely to have a heart attack than those who missed a professional teeth cleaning each year. Even more astounding was the correlation between brain health and dental care—the same study found that having that bi-annual dental exam and teeth cleaning can lower your risk of stroke by as much as 13 percent. Previous studies discovered that missing routine appointments with a dental hygienist for a teeth cleaning—as well as skipping basic at-home dental care—can increase the risk of heart disease by as much as 70 percent.

Despite these research findings, scientists still are uncertain of exactly why and how there is such a significant link between dental health and risk of whole-body disease, but the most popular hypothesis is inflammation. Tooth decay and gum disease significantly raise the level of inflammation in the body, which is a primary contributor to the development of disease.

The lowest risks of disease are associated with practicing dental care habits that have been instilled in most people since childhood—brushing at least twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and rinsing with a mouthwash. Having a professional teeth cleaning by a dental hygienist will remove bacteria and plaque build-up that a toothbrush and floss simply cannot reach. Cleaning your teeth regularly, both at home and at the dentist, eliminates the oral bacteria that can contribute to chronic infection and inflammation that can ultimately spread to the rest of the body.

You should visit your dentist in Fredericksburg at least twice a year, but some individuals may require a more-frequent teeth cleaning regimen. Ask your dentist to help you determine the appropriate frequency for your teeth cleaning appointments.

To learn about our family dentistry practice in Fredericksburg, call Dental One Associates of Fredericksburg today at (540) 765-4655 or make an appointment.

Dental One Associates offers affordable family dentistry and gentle, compassionate dental care in Fredericksburg. With 4 affiliated practices throughout Virginia, our offices are conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At Dental One Associates of Fredericksburg, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover an affordable dentist who truly cares at Dental One Associates of Fredericksburg.

We accept most insurance plans and will be happy to help you understand the coverage that you have. We will do our best to see that you receive your maximum insurance benefits for all covered services.

The above-listed practice complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. Notice of Nondiscrimination.